To fundamentally reform Ethics of Care theory (EoC) and to share a new framework, known as “Planetary Care,” with the world. This project seeks to promote a transition from a human-centric, single-world paradigm (global), to a pluralistic world in which humans and other species can coexist while remaining different (planetary), and present views on overcoming the challenges of the Anthropocene. This project will continue work on experimental initiatives through establishing living labs in various locations and addressing issues from the bottom-up. Outcomes will be modeled to demonstrate their ability to be copied and reproduced.
In the modern era known as the Anthropocene, the excessive, selfish actions of humans has led to large-scale disasters and climate change. At present, our key concern is the development of care ethics and practices that will enable humans and our natural environment to endure together.
This research seeks to overcome the tendency of conventional EoC theory being (living) human-centric by articulating what Planetary Care represents. Rather than confining care relationships to humans alone, the project aims to construct relationships based in mutual care and altruism between animals, plants, microorganisms, etc. (bios) as well as mountains, rivers, etc. (geos). Furthermore, the scope of care is expanded beyond just the living community to include the dead as well as those of the future.
The project works to develop models for social systems based on the approach of reconstructing worldviews and building care infrastructure. Infrastructure will be concretely developed in order to create environments where care is elicited unexpectedly, using flexible open-ended setups, mediums that facilitate chance encounters, more-than-human care workers, and responsive, co-creative practices.
